Hokanson, J. F., & Daniels, J. (2001). Iron status of elite male and female distance runners. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 33(5), Supplement abstract 402.

The iron status of elite distance runners (M = 21; F = 11) was followed over a 2-yr period.

A large range of serum ferritin levels was observed for both genders. Hemoglobin and hematocrit averages were within normal ranges, several female athletes did display low ferritin and hemoglobin measurements, indicating iron deficiency.

Implication. Iron stress is greater in female than male serious runners.

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